City of Austin Parks and Recreation reported that further construction delays will result in the loss of the 2019 pool season at Shipe Pool. Interum PARD Director Liana Kallivoka shared the following Shipe Pool construction update with City Council on Aug 12, 2019:

Shipe Pool is tentatively scheduled for completion in September 2019, and at this time, the pool is not expected to open this season. The Aquatic team will consider opening the pool earlier for the 2020 swim season, contingent upon having adequate lifeguard staff available.

Friends of Shipe Park will continue to advocate for a successful completion of the pool construction project and the other related construction efforts: the log cabin renovations, swing relocation, improvements in the area where the kiddie pool used to be, and a a restoration of the field and landscape all around the park. We’re all eager to see these projects done so we can benefit from the new infrastructure at Shipe and get this beloved space back.

Losing access to our neighborhood pool and park for this construction period has heightened our awareness of the great value of parks to our sense of community. We are looking forward to the gatherings of friends and neighbors we will have at Shipe Park again soon. From casual play dates with our young children to grand community parties – Shipe Park is where we feel like a genuine neighborhood.

We will share more soon as plans unfold for a Halloween movie night in the field, It’s My Park Day in the springtime, and the next Shipe Pool Party in 2020!

First the bad news: on June 13th representatives of the City informed the Friends of Shipe Park that Shipe Pool’s projected opening date has been delay once again. The opening date is now projected to be mid-August (a month later than the last projection.) The reasons given for this latest delay are 1) the late delivery of the glazed tile to be used in the interior of the bathhouse, 2) the plaster for the pool’s surface is a new longer-lasting material, but it will take longer to cure (dry); and 3) contractor delays (some weather related and some that, after a good start, the contractor’s work has slowed down considerably.) The substantial completion date is now July 30th . “Substantial completion” must be reached before the work can pass inspection and allow the City of Austin Aquatic Division to prepare for the use of the new pool facility including on-site life guard training, other safety procedures, and fine tuning of the facilities.

Now the good news: assuming no further delays, the Shipe Pool swim season will be extended, running from mid-August through September 28th. Weekday hours are currently scheduled for 4-8 p.m. and weekends from noon to 7:00 p.m. [Note: thanks to Council Member Kathie Tovo for working with PARD to arrange these extended swim days.]

In his May 14th update, City of Austin Shipe Pool Project Manager Reynaldo Hernandez shared a revised timeline for the completion of the new pool and pool facilities at Shipe Park. Because of recent rains and the late delivery of some construction materials, his current estimate is that Shipe Pool will be complete and open sometime in mid-July this year.

“The recent rains coupled with the delay in receipt of the glazed tile to be used in the interior of the bathhouse has caused a delay on the substantial completion date for the facility. G. Hyatt [the pool contractor] has communicated to the City of Austin that substantial completion will occur in late June. Substantial completion will allow the Aquatic Division to prepare the use of the new pool facility which includes life guard training and other safety procedures and allow for required inspections. The delay in substantial completion will delay the opening of the pool to the public to mid-July 2019.”

Unfortunate but not altogether unexpected delays like this are bad news for neighbors eager for the pool to be open to the public during the summer season. Given the complexity of the construction efforts and factors, like inclement weather, that are impossible to control, the city Parks and Recreation staff will share further updates as needed. We are aware that all hoping that the construction and inspection process goes forward without further delays and that the neighborhood will get to enjoy the new pool this summer!

Completed building forms with insulation attached, prepared for limestone finish. Pool coping completed along with tile at pool water line.

The full text from the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department Shipe Neighborhood Pool Project Update report follows:

May 14, 2019Project Status:
Late April and early May, brought forth the bathhouse structures and the prepping for the horizontal flat work to the site. All of the pool coping and water line tile was installed and plumbing and electrical work continues to be installed in the facility structures.

The pool work is being done by G. Hyatt sub-consultant Modern Pools. G. Hyatt is represented by Justin Hyatt and Kevin Cole the site superintendent. The City of Austin (COA) is represented by Sergio Altamirano who is the Public Works Project Manager and Reynaldo Hernandez, the Parks and Recreation Project Management Supervisor. Jodi Jay will represent the Aquatic Division along with Aquatic Supervisor Aaron Levin for the Parks and Recreation Department. The existing art mural continues to be monitored by representative Frank Wick from Art in Public Places (AIPP).

Project Schedule:
Mid-May to early June 2019, limestone block installation to face of buildings will continue until completion. The forming and pouring of the concrete retaining walls and seat walls will begin including the installation of the shade structure foundations. The recent rains coupled with the delay in receipt of the glazed tile to be used in the interior of the bathhouse has caused a delay on the substantial completion date for the facility. G. Hyatt has communicated to the City of Austin that substantial completion will occur in late June. Substantial completion will allow the Aquatic Division to prepare the use of the new pool facility which includes life guard training and other safety procedures and allow for required inspections. The delay in substantial completion will delay the opening of the pool to the public to mid-July 2019.

Potential Construction Effects on Community:
There are two active construction entrances for the facility, one is along Ave. F and along E. 44th. Street. Construction access will occur intermittently throughout the construction of the facility, including on most Saturday’s. The contractor has been instructed to have all construction employees park on Ave. G between 45th and 44th Streets. Construction start time will typically begin at 7am and last to 6pm. The majority of the existing play ground will be accessible to the public during the construction of the pool facility for the month of January. Please be aware that there will be excessive noise and dust while the facility is under construction and this may effect public use and enjoyment of the park site

Additional Information:
If you should have further questions or comments please contact Reynaldo Hernandez at Reynaldo.hernandez@austintexas.gov or by calling 512-974-9464.

After a few starts and stops due to weather and accessibility, the pool construction and renovation of the beloved Shipe Log Cabin is well underway! Phase 1 which included removal of the chinking and installation of new decking, zinc flashing and traditional shake shingles is nearing completion. Phase 2 will include new chinking, perimeter drainage work, new lighting, cleaning of the logs and application of a natural sealant to protect the wood from future deterioration. The materials for the reconstruction of the cabin will be in keeping with the original structure as much as possible. Material selections were vetted and selected by a team from the city spearheaded by Kim McNight, the Historic Preservation and Conservation Program Manager for PARD. As with all new construction, even those using “period” techniques and materials, it will take some time for the new wood and metal to acquire that “aged” look but we are confident it will patina nicely.

Many thanks to James Nolan Construction and PARD Project Managers George Maldonado and Mike Jones for keeping the project rolling. A tip of the hat to the pool builders G Hyatt Construction Company for working with Friends of Shipe Park during their “big dig.” Most of all, Friends of Shipe Park wants to express our deep gratitude to the generous community members like you who have contributed so much towards restoring the Log Cabin to it’s rightful role as the “gathering place of Hyde Park.” This and other park improvements couldn’t happen without YOU!

Work on Shipe Park improvement projects officially began on October 8th when the City of Austin approved the Notice to Proceed the swimming pool contractor.

Projects already done or currently under way include:

Construction fencing was erected around much of the park south of Waller Creek. The reason for this is that the construction contractor needs much of this area for staging materials, equipment, and a temporary trailer. Park amenities still accessible include the kids’ playscape, the basketball court, and the tennis courts.

The City Arts in Public Places program carefully wrapped the Shipe Pool mural with a protective (mastic) covering. The mural will be preserved to become part of the new pool.

PARD has provided Porta-potties near 44thand Avenue F for park users for the period of time when the bathrooms in the Log Cabin are inaccessible.

James Nolan Construction has begun renovation of the Log Cabin, replacing the roof, replacing chinking and making other upgrades. This work is scheduled for completion by the end of the year.

The City of Austin Forestry department has completed much-needed work on the heritage oak next to the Log Cabin. This involved air spading the soil around the trunk to aerate the soil and lower the soil to the proper level for the tree’s root zone. Forestry also trimmed the trees by the Avenue F “construction entrance” to allow placement of the construction trailer on the gravel adjacent to the large swing set. In addition, it carefully lifted the low live oak branches that were touching the bottom of the wading pool. This will enable the contractor to proceed with demolition of the wading pool.

The City has begun work on a planned new sidewalk on the east side of Avenue G connecting 45thStreet to the entrance of the new pool.

Hyatt Construction has begun work on the new pool. The City of Austin’s projected completion date is June 15, 2019.

Neighbors Contribute to Shipe Park Projects

Through mid-October 45 individuals, 2 foundations, 2 restaurants, HPNA, and the Hyde Park Baptist Church had contributed over $35,000 to match a $50,000 grant from the Austin Parks Foundation. This will fund the renovation of the Log Cabin and new amenities in the old wading pool area. To contribute to this community effort to invest in our park, go to: https://austinparks.org/support-shipe-park/

Hi Neighbors! Great things are starting to happen at Shipe Park! As the new pool construction begins this fall, plans are in the works to improve other areas in need of attention including…

Renovation of the 1930s log cabin exterior (Fall project)

Repurposing the Old Wading Pool area into play area (Winter Project)

Relocation of swing set and addition of benches and picnic tables (Winter Project)

Eventual replacement of the playscape (future project)

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

Friends of Shipe Park must raise $34,000 as a required matching component for a $50,000 Austin Parks Foundation Community Grant. This money will fund the Log Cabin Project which will restore the Log Cabin and the Wading Pool Project which will improve the swing set and current wading pool areas. With the help of neighbors, the Hyde Park Neighborhood Association, foundations, and community businesses, we plan to raise $34,000 in required matching funds by the end of October 2018. This will ensure that, when the new swimming pool is completed, other areas of Shipe Park will be restored and ready for use and enjoyment by Shipe Park users.

This 1930s structure has long been an integral part of activity at Shipe Park, serving as a shelter for birthday parties, concerts, picnics, social gatherings and the park’s restrooms. But it desperately needs attention! Friends of Shipe Park has been urging the Parks and Recreation Department to restore the Cabin for years and finally PARD is positioned to address the Cabin’s needs and has provided funding through the City of Austin Capital Improvements Project (CIP) to pay for the restored ADA compliant restrooms. However, private funds are needed for other critical repairs to the Log Cabin.

Status In Progress

Scope of Work Shingle and decking repair; structural remediation; log repair and new chinking between the logs.

Timeline September thru December 2018

Cost $50-60,000.

In November 2017, the Austin Parks Foundation awarded a $50,000 grant to Friends of Shipe Park to help fund the renovation of the Shipe Log Cabin and a Phase 2 plan called the Wading Pool Project. After reviewing the bids for the Log Cabin, the Austin Parks Foundation hired a builder, James Nolan Construction, who has a special interest in historical properties. PARD and Friends of Shipe Park will provide oversight and ensure that the work and materials are done in compliance with accepted standards for historic structures.

LOG CABIN BATHROOM AND SIDEWALK WORK

Status In Progress

The City has completed the ADA changes to the bathrooms and the remaining improvements will be done during pool construction

Scope of Work Replacing the restroom doors with newly forged identical hardware; Installing new concrete sidewalks around the Log Cabin; Regrading around the Cabin’s perimeter; Aeration and Mulching of Heritage Tree

Timeline September 2018 thru June 2019

Cost $0 (Included in new Pool Budget)

Per the new Shipe Pool design, the Log Cabin bathrooms serve as two of the four required bathroom facilities servicing the pool thus preserving space in the new pool area and providing newly-renovated bathrooms year-round to park users. This part of the project will be funded out of the $3.1M in CIP funds for the pool.

OLD WADING POOL PROJECT

The Wading Pool is relocating to the new pool area. The old wading pool will be demolished, filled and regraded… leaving an unused area inside the fence. This project aims to restore that area for park use by converting it into an additional play area as well as solving the critical issues concerning the existing swing set area. Our beautiful heritage Live Oak tree, which has shaded the swing set for decades, is critically encroaching on the swing set, causing the removal of at least one swing. The City’s Urban Forestry Department has been working with Friends of Shipe Park for over a year to find a solution that does not include cutting any more branches off the old tree. Our best solution is to relocate the swing set to the Wading Pool area. Per code, any new swing set must be in a fenced area making the fenced wading pool area the best viable location. Additionally, this solution not only saves the tree branches but will allow for a conversion of the shady area to a mulched picnic and bench seating area for park users.

Status Design Phase

Scope of Work: Demo, Regrading and Fill in Wading Pool area (Included in Pool Budget); Removal of sidewalk on north side of Wading Pool area (Included in Pool Budget); Relocating the swing set to the new space; Adding one picnic table and one bench to the new space; Repair fence; Demo of gravel in swing area, Aeration, Composting in tree root zone; Installation of three picnic tables and three benches; Installation of 275 Cu Yds of Mulch in both areas

Timeline September 2018 thru June 2019 during new pool construction

Cost $20,000

The Austin Parks Foundation has awarded a $50,000 grant to Friends of Shipe Park on the condition that the community raise the extra money to complete both projects. The combined total of the Log Cabin and Wading Pool Project is expected to cost around $84,000 which, after deducting the $50,000 grant money, leaves a remainder of $34,000 to be raised through community fundraising.

NEW SHIPE POOL PROJECT

Status Bidding Stage

In 2014 Council Members Kathie Tovo and Laura Morrison led the effort to secure $3.1M in Capital Improvements Projects funding to build a new Shipe Pool. The planning and permitting process has been complicated and painfully slow. Because the old pool leaked badly, PARD closed it during the 2017 and 2018 swim seasons. The most recent delay came in July 2018 when the only contractor who bid on the pool construction was disqualified. This required the City to re-solicit bids. On August 16ththe City announced that three contractors had submitted new bids from which the City will make a final selection. While there could be further delays, the City’s ideal schedule is for construction to begin this fall and completed by June 2019. Friends of Shipe Park will keep the community updated on the revised schedule.

FUTURE NEEDS AT SHIPE PARK

Although not included in this fundraising cycle, here’s a glimpse of our future needs.

Replace Playscape

The current playscape was added in 2004. A recent City of Austin “Playground Conditions Assessment” stated: “Shipe Playground has failing Poured-in-Place Rubber Safety Surfacing and severely compacted pea gravel that is non-compliant for the height of the equipment. The decks are rusted. The playground is in poor condition. The play structures have outlived their designed useful life.” The report estimates the replacement cost at $150,000. While the City of Austin’s tentative/proposed fall 2018 bond package includes funding for playscape replacements, Shipe is not on the list of park playscapes in most critical need of replacement.

Basketball Court

The surface of the court has developed a crack down the middle from one end to the other. The width of this cracking is uneven and presents an unsafe surface for players. While this has been reported to PARD, there are no current plans to repair it.

WHO ARE THE FRIENDS OF SHIPE PARK

Friends of Shipe Park is an informal group of neighbors dedicated to enhancing life in Hyde Park through events and improvements to Shipe Park.

OUR VISION FOR SHIPE PARK

In five years, Shipe Park will be the best neighborhood park in Austin.

Since 1928 Shipe Park has been an integral part of living in Hyde Park. Generations of Austinites have enjoyed Shipe’s amenities, and as Austin has grown, park usage has significantly increased. Shipe is getting “loved to death” and its facilities are aging (if not aged): the cabin was built in 1930, the wading pool in 1933, the swimming pool in 1934, the playscape in 2004. All of these facilities have outlived their useful lives and/or are no longer in compliance with established standards for parks and pools.

FRIENDS OF SHIPE PARK IS DOING IT’S BEST TO PRESERVE AND IMPROVE SHIPE FOR THE FUTURE BUT WE NEED YOUR HELP!!!